The Oswego, Illinois community is mourning the loss of James Fitzmaurice Sr., 64, and Virgie Fitzmaurice, 62, following a devastating home explosion on Thursday afternoon.
Authorities say the Oswego Fire Protection District responded to the 200 block of Fox Trace Drive just after 5 p.m., following reports of a home explosion that trapped residents. Upon arrival, crews found a two-story home collapsed and fully engulfed in flames. After extinguishing the fire and carefully searching the debris, emergency responders located the bodies of the couple, who were later pronounced dead at the scene.
Neighbors told WGN News that the couple lived in the home, and the sudden tragedy has left the Oswego community deeply shaken.
The Oswego Fire Protection District said preliminary investigations suggest that a gas leak may have caused the explosion, though authorities continue to investigate the exact circumstances.
The community extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of James and Virgie Fitzmaurice. Their lives and legacy will be remembered by all who knew and loved them, and the loss of this couple serves as a somber reminder of life’s fragility.
